The Story of Feed Sacks – Ames History Museum

The Story of Feed Sacks

Attend in person: Ames Public Library, 515 Douglas Ave.
Attend online: Register for the Zoom link
Free & open to the public

Long before “sustainability” was a household word, people reused the fabric bags that once held everything from animal feed and seed to sugar and flour to ballots, hams, and even laxatives. Based on her book, “Feed Sacks: The Colourful History of a Frugal Fabric,” Linzee Kull McCray will share both the beauty of feed sacks and their importance in the social and economic history of the times in which they were made and used. The lecture features historic photos, vintage advertising, and fabric patterns, as well as actual sacks and the clothing, quilts, and other items made from them. It is of interest to lovers of fashion, textiles and design, historians, quilters, and those with an interest in sustainability.

Presented in partnership by Ames History Museum, Ames Public Library, The Knittery Nook & Fibre Co., Prairie Rose Needleworks, and Quilting Connection. Supported by Ames Public Library Friends Foundation.

This lecture is presented in conjunction with Ames History Museum’s feature exhibit, “Quilted Together,” on display through Oct. 11, 2025.